24/7 Restaurant Lead Cook
At Monarch Casino Resort Spa, we are more than just a premier destination for luxury gaming and hospitality in Black Hawk, Colorado; we are creators of unforgettable moments. Our commitment to excellence shines through our exceptional gaming, exquisite dining, and indulgent spa services, all set in an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. As a family-owned business, we prioritize nurturing lasting relationships with our guests and the community, ensuring that every interaction is warm, memorable, and tailored to foster a true sense of belonging.
Job Title: 24/7 Restaurant Lead Cook
Salary: $27.00/hr
Shift: Varies
Type: Full Time
Job Summary
Help lead the day-to-day kitchen operations during assigned graveyard shifts, ensuring food quality, safety, and consistency.
Coordinate with the Chef de Cuisine / Sous Chef and train or guide line cooks and prep staff.
Responsibilities
Food Production & Quality
Prepare, cook, and plate dishes according to recipes, portioning standards, and presentation guidelines.
Maintain consistent quality, taste, and timing across the line.
Ensure sauces, stocks, and prep items are prepared on schedule.
Line Leadership & Workflow
Coordinate station assignments and manage workflow to meet service demands.
Set up stations, organize mise en place, and maintain cleanliness and readiness.
Communicate effectively during service to prevent delays or order issues.
Kitchen Safety & Compliance
Follow food safety practices (e.g., temperature controls, sanitation, allergen handling).
Ensure proper storage, labeling, rotation (FIFO), and cleanliness.
Report hazards, equipment issues, or health/safety concerns immediately.
Training & Staff Support
Train new hires and provide ongoing guidance to cooks and prep staff.
Coach team members on technique, speed, and quality standards.
Support scheduling needs by covering tasks during peak periods.
Inventory, Prep, and Waste Control
Assist with inventory checks, rotation, and ordering as directed.
Monitor ingredient usage, portion control, and waste reduction.
Ensure adequate levels of prep items for future shifts.
Operational Support
Keep production records as required (prep lists, temperature logs, etc.).
Support opening/closing procedures, including equipment setup and cleaning standards.
Maintain a calm, professional approach under pressure.
Qualifications
Experience
3+ years of cooking experience.
Experience leading a kitchen line or supporting prep/production leadership preferred.
Culinary Skills
Strong understanding of cooking techniques, kitchen timing, and flavor profiles.
Ability to follow standardized recipes and scale production.
Experience with at least one relevant cuisine/production style (e.g., scratch cooking, hot line, sauté, grill).
Food Safety & Compliance
Food handler certification.
Proven knowledge of safe food handling, allergen protocols, and sanitation.
Leadership & Teamwork
Ability to direct workflow and collaborate with BOH/FOH partners.
Strong communication skills and ability to mentor others.
Reliability & Physical Readiness
Ability to stand for long periods and handle fast-paced service.
Willingness to work graveyards/weekends/holidays as needed
We believe that our people are at the heart of our success. By investing in our team through growth opportunities and robust training programs, we cultivate an environment of loyalty and pride. Our focus on building a talent ecosystem in collaboration with local institutions enables us to ensure that every experience at Monarch reflects the luxury and dedication we stand for. Join us in creating extraordinary experiences that inspire and elevate the spirit of hospitality.